Gift ideas Himalaya

It's more a succession of stands on a tiny surface than a market (let's be clear!). An excellent place to find a more or less unusual or traditional memory. Think about trading.

South of Thamel, the bazaar of Asan Tole is more a succession of stands than a market. You can find everything: fruits and vegetables, teas, meats, copper utensils, sculptures, singing bowls, jewellery, spices, trekking equipment... not always made in Tibet (check the provenance as much as possible and negotiate firmly!). We will come more for the rather unique atmosphere than to do business. A must-see walk that will often take you to hidden temples.

Here's a real concept store that has nothing to envy of the designer boutiques of Paris or New York, except that here the prices are more than affordable for a French wallet. It has a French name, which is so chic, but only sells beautifully crafted Nepalese products. Starting with magnificent ceramics from the factory in the pottery village of Thimi near Bhaktapur, and beautiful stationery and Woven kits in Nepalese cotton and buffalo leather. We warn you, we want to buy everything.

Only 5 minutes walk from the French Embassy (you have to go 50m past the Lazimpat Café Gallery), this fair trade shop produces, markets and exports Nepalese handicrafts. Each purchase from Mahaguthi directly helps those involved in the supply and production chain (most often women and workers from remote areas): 68% of sales go to the artisans of the products.

Among all the shops on the main street, Tara Handicraft has the particularity of housing a painters' studio on the first floor. Take a look around and see the artists at work! On the ground floor, you'll find antiques, books, small souvenirs (cordyceps tea, T-shirts), beauty products, jewellery (pretty little pearl bracelets for toddlers). The shop is run by a charming couple who will be able to advise you in your search for the most beautiful souvenir to take with you.